Coach Dom suggests talking to neighbors and friends, asking them if they have metal cans or other scrap they’d be willing to let you take off their hands. You can also check dumpsters around auto repair shops and large apartment complexes.
Visiting private sales, like yard/estate sales or home foreclosure sales, can also be helpful. Look for ferrous metals (iron-chromium alloys) and nonferrous metals (copper and aluminum).
Check Online Reviews
When choosing scrap metal dealers NJ, it is important to research the company and check online reviews. You want to ensure the dealer is reputable and will provide a fair price for your materials.
It is also important to find out which types of scrap they accept. Some dealers may only specialize in certain types of metals, while others will recycle a wide variety. You can find out what types of metals your local dealers accept by checking their website or contacting them directly.
Lastly, it is also important to consider security. Metal thieves target scrap/salvage yards that leave their inventory unsecured. A system requiring customers to provide identification and keep detailed records can help deter these thieves.
Visit the Yard in Person
Visiting the scrap yard in person is always a good idea before purchasing. This will give you a feel for the environment and understand how the business operates. You can also learn what kinds of metal they buy. Some yards specialize in ferrous metals (iron and steel), while others pay more for nonferrous metals like copper, brass, and aluminum.
Check dumpsters around auto repair shops and major apartment complexes if you’re looking for scrap metal. You should also look for unused metal items at garage and yard sales.
Large farms are another source of scrap metal. You can find old farm machinery, tools, and equipment at these sites. Check out the “bone yards” behind industrial facilities as well. These areas often contain old conveyors, damaged steel pallet racking, and other metal items just taking up space.
Ask for a Quote
Especially when selling scrap metal, getting a quote before handing over your items is important. This allows you to compare prices and ensure you get the best deal for your scrap. A quote also makes tracking your inventory easier and identifies any potential theft.
Look for local scrap yards with advanced equipment, such as scales and magnet cranes. These facilities are more likely to offer higher payouts for your metal. You can also contact local manufacturers to see if they have any excess metal they need to dispose of. Also, ask for a price per pound and an itemized list of goods/services to ensure clarity and communication.
Check the Yard’s License
Most scrap metal dealers require a seller’s ID. This is necessary to prevent thieves from selling stolen materials to unscrupulous scrap yards. Some dealers also require sellers to pay in check instead of cash, which helps police track and identify thieves.
Establish relationships with local repair shops, especially those specializing in automotive repairs. These businesses often have old steel shelving, carts, and other items they no longer use. In exchange for providing them with free removal services, you can help them recycle these items while reducing their disposal costs.
Large farms are another potential source of unused metals. They may have old tractors, equipment, and other supplies to be salvaged for money.
Ask for a Receipt
Besides your local junkyard, you can look for scrap metals in trade shops, car repair, and welding businesses. They often have old parts lying around that they’re not using, as well as discarded items like aluminum rims.
Copper and bronze are especially valuable. But remember that you’ll need to research which types of metal pay the best prices at different scrap yards in your area.
Also, make sure you have a magnet and a dolly handy. The magnet will help you identify nonferrous metals, which cost much more than ferrous metals such as steel. The dolly will be useful when hauling heavy items to and from the scrap yard. A pair of cut-resistant gloves and eye protection is also a must.